Top Picks for Planting in Utah Throughout the Year
Utah gardening can be a rewarding endeavor, thanks to the state's distinctive climate that spans from chilly, snowy winters to scorching hot, dry summers. When choosing plants for Utah gardens, it's essential to focus on species that flourish in this unique environment, as it benefits both the garden and the ecosystem.
With Utah being one of the driest states in the U.S., selecting drought-resistant plants not only conserves water but also promotes thriving gardens in low-moisture conditions. Native and adapted plants, adapted to the state's climate extremes, tend to handle intense sunlight, low humidity, and temperature fluctuations with ease, while requiring minimal maintenance.
Moreover, many areas in Utah feature alkaline soil. Native plants are more likely to prosper in these soil conditions without the need for extensive amendments. Growing native species encourages local wildlife, such as birds, bees, and butterflies, as it offers them natural habitats and food sources.
Here's a list of plants that thrive in Utah's distinct climate:
1. Black-eyed Susans
Also known as rudbeckia hirta, this native North American flower is an excellent addition to your Utah garden. Unlike most perennials, it doesn't return every year, but it makes up for it with its vibrant blooms. Black-eyed Susans can grow up to 3 feet tall and are easy to care for. Known as a symbol of encouragement, these flowers come in a variety of colors, including white, yellow, and brown. They typically bloom in late spring or early summer. Some Native American herbal medicines have used an infusion of black-eyed Susan roots to treat colds, dropsy, and worms in children.
2. Royal Fern (Osmunda regalis)
Originally from Europe, Africa, and Asia, this fern loves humus-rich soil that is well-mulched to conserve moisture and maintain a cool temperature. It thrives best in temperatures below 75°F and is rich in antioxidants, making it a great anti-aging plant.
3. Hydrangea
A favorite among gardeners, hydrangeas grow in a variety of climates, including Utah's alkaline soils. These plants change the color of their blooms depending on the soil pH, with blue or purple blooms turning pink in most Utah soil due to its pH level.
4. Lavender (English Lavender)
Aromatherapists use lavender oil to treat headaches, nervous disorders, and exhaustion. This Mediterranean plant also offers skin benefits, supporting skin cells, healing wounds, and boosting white blood cell growth. Lavender thrives in full or partial sun and doesn't need fancy soil.
5. Bell Peppers
Colorful vegetables from the Capsicum annuum species, bell peppers pack a nutritional punch, benefiting skin cells, wounds, and immune system health. Plant these versatile vegetables in Utah after the danger of frost has passed.
6. Squash
Native to the New World, squash is both great for eating (roasted, dried, fried, or pureed) and offers a healthy pasta alternative called "courgetti." Plant summer squashes in spring, once the frost danger has passed, and winter squashes in mid-summer.
7. Hollyhock (Alcea)
Native to Asia, these hardy plants (zones 3-8) bloom with beautiful flowers in a spectrum of colors. Although they require patience (you won't see blossoms until the second year), they are easy to grow by sowing seeds directly into the spring or summer soil.
8. Tomatoes
rich in lycopene, tomatoes are believed to help prevent various cancers and reduce the risk of heart diseases and diabetes. Tomatoes grow best in sunny locations and well-drained soils. Plant seeds directly in the garden 10-14 days before the last frost date.
9. Daylilies (Hemerocallis)
Popular in the United States, daylilies are adaptable to Utah's climate, soil, and conditions. Hardy from Zone 3 through 8, these perennial plants tolerate drought, grow in a wide range of soils, and add color to your garden from early spring through fall.
By choosing plants suited for Utah's unique environment, gardeners can enjoy lush, sustainable landscapes that require minimal maintenance and provide a low-water, eco-friendly alternative to traditional water-consuming gardens.
Home-and-garden enthusiasts in Utah can optimize their gardening endeavors by focusing on plants that thrive in the state's distinctive climate. This selection includes native and adapted plants like black-eyed Susans, a vibrant, low-maintenance flower that prosper in Utah's drier conditions. Moreover, incorporating native plants encourages local wildlife and fosters a lifestyle that promotes sustainability and eco-friendliness within home-and-garden practices.
